Voices in the Trades

Explore different perspectives within the skilled trades and Ferguson partnerships to advance workforce development.

The construction industry faces a workforce gap of half a million, intensified by the impending retirement eligibility of the baby boomer generation. Women, making up just 14.4% of the industry, represent a significant untapped resource. To celebrate their success, we’re featuring perspectives and advice from women in their own words with Voices in the Trades.

Ferguson partnerships

We’re proud to champion trade organizations and nonprofits working to close the skills gap across the U.S. Learn how Ferguson partnerships advance workforce development in the skilled trades.

mikeroweWORKS Foundation

Ferguson proudly partners with the mikeroweWORKS Foundation to help close America’s skilled trades gap. The foundation challenges outdated perceptions about work and promotes the value of hands-on careers. Through its Work Ethic Scholarship Program and S.W.E.A.T. Pledge, mikeroweWORKS empowers hardworking individuals to pursue training in high-demand fields like plumbing, HVAC, and electrical work. Together, we’re investing in the next generation of tradespeople and reshaping the future of the workforce.

Women in the Mechanical Industry

Now in its eighth year, the Ferguson Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Scholarship continues to celebrate and support the next generation of mechanical professionals. Presented annually at the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) Convention, the scholarship awards $5,000 each to two standout students who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and a strong commitment to the mechanical contracting field.

Explore The Trades

Ferguson partners with Explore The Trades to create a skills lab program that supports career and technical education in middle and high schools across the nation. Explore The Trades is helping develop the next generation of skilled workers for plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical.